An Inordinate Fondness #2 – “Beetlemania”

AIF #2 is up at Birder’s Lounge! Amber and AJ have cleverly adopted a musical theme for this month’s edition, complete with song snippets and the irreverent perspective that we have come to expect and adore in their writings. Buzz on over, listen to the music, and let their prose whet your appetites before visiting our eleven contributors. If you’re the commenting sort, let them know what you think of this month’s presentation.

AIF#3 will be hosted next month by The Geek in Question at Fall To Climb. TGIQ recently burst onto the blogging scene with an enthusiasm so refreshing that I can’t wait to see what she comes up with for her first blog carnival hosting gig! Submissions are due by April 15, so get your taxes and beetle posts done together. Contact TGIQ directly, or use this handy blog carnival submission form if you prefer. Also, we need volunteers to host future editions of AIF – if you’re interested please send me an email indicating the month of your choice.

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An Inordinate Fondness… for Beetles!

When asked by an English cleric what his studies of nature’s diversity had taught him about the Creator, 20th Century British geneticist and noted evolutionary biologist J.B.S. Haldane reportedly quipped, "He has an inordinate fondness for beetles." While there is some uncertainty whether Haldane ever actually spoke these words, no one can argue with their truth.

In fact, nearly half of all insects and one quarter of all described living species are beetles—350,000 and counting. They occur in virtually every habitat imaginable and exhibit innumerable, often brightly colored—even iridescent—and architecturally elaborate forms. Their impacts on humans are also many, not only as pests and beneficial organisms, but also as cultural symbols and objects of passionate scientific and philatelic interest.

An Inordinate Fondness is a celebration of beetles—of their indescribable beauty, amazing forms, and astonishing diversity. We hope you will join us in this celebration every month, as we highlight the best that the blogosphere has to offer on this fascinating group of animals.